What is a reluctant reader?

I attended a lecture by Roger Sutton, editor of Horn Book Magazine. Horn Book reviews all children's books published in hardback each year. In his lecture, he made some pivotal and thought provoking suggestions that have me asking these questions.

Do we (teachers, librarians, parents, people) categorize children as reluctant readers because they don't read the books we "want" them to read?

Why does a child have to a read chapter book in order to be assessed on reading skills? As long as they are reading a book on their level be it non-fiction, pictures book, or chapter books what's the BIG deal?

Does every child in the teacher determined reading group, have to read the same book? Is this better for the child or for the teacher?

What am I subconsciously doing to encourage or discourage reading by projecting my own ideas and beliefs about reading upon the reader?

Is there only one way to assess reading? Is that "reading fair" style or something else?

What about other types of reading materials...e-books, magazines, online articles, newspapers, comics, etc.? What about these?

The answers to these questions will vary across individuals, schools, disticts, and even states. Some will cause quite the controversy when presented. Still, I believe that it is through a good debate that change is brought forth. I would love to hear from you and about what you are doing to prevent reluctant readers.

Until next time...

XOOXOXOXOX